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Jose Ramirez is surging at the perfect time, and the Cleveland Guardians are benefiting from every powerful swing. After helping Cleveland survive a dramatic American League Division Series, the veteran third baseman is preparing to lead his club into an AL Championship Series matchup with the Tampa Bay Rays.
The Guardians will open the ALCS at Tropicana Field on Monday night, looking to move one step closer to ending Cleveland’s 78-year World Series championship drought. For Ramirez, the opportunity carries personal significance. He is a seven-time All-Star, six-time Silver Slugger and former American League pennant winner, but he has never captured a World Series title.
Jose Ramirez Delivers a Powerful Playoff Revival
Ramirez helped send Cleveland into the ALCS with a decisive performance in the winner-take-all ALDS Game 5 against the Chicago White Sox. His two-run home run lifted the Guardians to a 2-0 victory Saturday night, securing Cleveland’s place in the next round.
The result was especially important because Ramirez had struggled during the opening two games of the series. He went 0-for-6 as Cleveland dropped both contests. However, the star quickly rediscovered his rhythm when the Guardians faced elimination.
- Five hits in 12 at-bats across Games 3 through 5
- One double, one triple and two home runs
- Seven RBIs during Cleveland’s comeback
- A key two-run homer in the deciding Game 5
“When he’s like he’s been right now, it’s been special,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said, according to MLB.com. Outfielder Jo Adell also described Ramirez as the “heartbeat” of the team.
Critical Power Surge After Hamate Surgery
The most encouraging development for Cleveland has been the return of Ramirez’s power. The 34-year-old missed time after undergoing left hamate surgery on June 16, and his production initially dipped after returning to the lineup.
In his first 44 games back, from July 22 through September 15, Ramirez hit .210 with a .263 slugging percentage and a 27.7% hard-hit rate over 188 plate appearances. Since September 16, however, his numbers have improved sharply.
- .304 batting average
- .571 slugging percentage
- 52% hard-hit rate over 64 plate appearances
That late-season turnaround could be decisive against Tampa Bay. Cleveland will need consistent production from its lineup, and Ramirez’s ability to change a game with one swing gives the Guardians a dangerous weapon in high-pressure situations.
Rays Know the Challenge of Facing Ramirez
Tampa Bay’s players and coaches have made it clear that they understand the threat Ramirez presents. Rays right-hander Drew Rasmussen called him a top-10 player in the world and one of baseball’s most underrated stars.
“He is a one-of-a-kind talent,” Rasmussen said, emphasizing the preparation required before facing the Cleveland third baseman. Rays right-hander Griffin Jax added that Ramirez is on a Hall of Fame trajectory because of his discipline, awareness and ability to adjust in critical moments.
Ramirez does not need to force the action. He can hit for power, take a single to the opposite field, create pressure on the bases or wait patiently for the pitch he wants. That versatility makes him difficult to defend and allows him to influence games even when he is not hitting home runs.
Historic Opportunity for Cleveland’s Franchise Star
Ramirez has appeared in the ALCS twice during his eight postseason runs. He helped Cleveland defeat Toronto in five games in 2016 before the club advanced to the World Series. In 2024, the Guardians returned to the championship series but lost to the New York Yankees in five games.
Now, he has another opportunity to guide Cleveland past the league championship round. The Guardians have rewarded his loyalty with two long-term contract extensions, and Ramirez remains under contract through the 2032 season.
His rise has been built on persistence. When Ramirez first reached the majors in 2013, he was not viewed as a top-tier prospect. Former Cleveland staff members, including Rays manager Kevin Cash and Orioles manager Craig Albernaz, have recalled the early questions about whether he would establish himself in the league.
Instead, Ramirez worked his way into becoming the face of the Guardians. His influence now extends beyond statistics, with teammates relying on his leadership during the most demanding moments of the season.
“You have to always find a way to win,” Ramirez said. “That’s what this group has done: find the ways to win.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Jose Ramirez
Who are the Guardians playing in the ALCS?
The Cleveland Guardians are facing the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League Championship Series.
How did Jose Ramirez help Cleveland reach the ALCS?
Ramirez hit a two-run home run in the decisive ALDS Game 5, helping Cleveland defeat the Chicago White Sox, 2-0.
How old is Jose Ramirez?
Ramirez is 34 years old during the 2026 postseason.
When did Ramirez have hamate surgery?
He underwent left hamate surgery on June 16, 2026, before returning to Cleveland’s lineup later in the season.
How long is Ramirez under contract with Cleveland?
Ramirez is under contract with the Guardians through the 2032 season.
